Once a Wolf: How Wildlife Biologists Fought to Bring Back the Gray Wolf

Reach for this book when your child expresses a deep fascination with predators, questions why some animals are 'villains' in fairy tales, or shows an interest in how humans impact the natural world. It is an ideal choice for a middle-grade reader who is ready to move past myths and engage with the complex, real-world work of environmental conservation and the restoration of balance in nature. This nonfiction work documents the history of gray wolves in North America, from their near-extinction due to human fear and hunting to their successful reintroduction in Yellowstone National Park. It weaves together science, history, and folklore to show how biologists worked tirelessly to change public perception. It is a story of justice and resilience, showing that while humans can cause great harm to ecosystems, dedicated individuals also have the power to heal them through science and perseverance.